Gastric dilatation-volvulus (GDV) is a rapidly fatal emergency in large breed dogs requiring immediate surgery, with prevention strategies that can save lives.
GDV causes rapid and extreme welfare compromise: gastric distension causes pain, cardiovascular shock from pressure on major vessels, and ischaemic necrosis of stomach tissue. The time from onset to death without treatment can be as short as 2-6 hours. Welfare during the emergency is characterised by severe pain, restlessness, unproductive retching, and cardiovascular collapse. Prompt recognition and emergency transport are critical welfare interventions owners can take. Prevention through prophylactic gastropexy at neutering for high-risk breeds is strongly recommended by veterinary specialists. Risk reduction strategies include feeding multiple small meals, avoiding exercise immediately after feeding, and avoiding raised food bowls (evidence does not support raised bowls as protective and some data suggests harm).